Quinta Brunson and Benson Boone Light Up SNL with Star-Studded Appearances

Quinta Brunson made a triumphant return to Saturday Night Live on May 3, 2025, not only as the host but also as a vibrant force of comedic energy. Alongside musical guest Benson Boone, the show delivered a memorable night filled with laughter, music, and surprise appearances. Let's dive into the highlights of the evening!

Quinta Brunson's Hilarious Monologue

Quinta Brunson's opening monologue was nothing short of spectacular. Addressing the audience with her signature wit, she quickly won over the crowd. The monologue took an unexpected turn when Sabrina Carpenter crashed the stage, leading to a delightful comedic exchange. But the surprises didn't stop there! Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade also made a cameo, adding an extra layer of excitement to the opening segment.

The monologue cleverly played on Brunson's rising fame and her down-to-earth personality. According to Reddit user LiviaDruzilla, Brunson's SNL monologue was a tribute to her fellow 4'11" sisters. It wasn't mean-spirited at all and celebrated short women and men alike.

Benson Boone's SNL Debut

Adding a musical dimension to the night was Benson Boone, who made his SNL debut as the musical guest. Boone showcased his vocal prowess with performances of "I'm Here for Someone Else" and "Mystical Magical," captivating the audience with his emotive delivery and stage presence. His performance added a refreshing energy to the show, complementing the comedic sketches perfectly.

According to Deadline, Benson Boone even serenaded Quinta Brunson, making for an unforgettable moment.

Sketch Highlights and "Cut for Time" Segments

The episode featured a variety of sketches that showcased the comedic talents of the SNL cast and Quinta Brunson. While some sketches made it to air, others were "Cut for Time" but remained memorable nonetheless.

Reddit user mmayor114 provided a detailed dress rehearsal report, offering insights into what was changed or cut from the live show. Here are some notable mentions:

• Trump Executive Order Cold Open: The sketch originally featured Trump in a Pope hat, but this was later removed.
• Will and Todd's Radical Experience: The ending was altered, with Ego Nwodim joining as Harriet Tubman's cousin Janet.
• Weekend Update: Several jokes were cut, including a controversial punchline about the Pope from Africa.

One "Cut for Time" sketch that stood out was "Halo 3 Hospital," described by mmayor114 as follows:

"Ego and Devon are visiting their elderly mom (Quinta) in the hospital who just had an injury. Devon mentions that he brought all their mom’s things from home, a list which includes her Xbox 360. As Ego starts to say a bunch of heartfelt things to Quinta, Quinta boots up the Xbox and launches Halo 3 on the TV behind Ego... After reaching peak frustration, Devon unplugs the Xbox, but it turns out it was Quinta’s life support and she flatlines."

Despite not making it to air, this sketch highlights the creative and often absurd humor that SNL is known for.

Sabrina Carpenter's Vintage Chanel Moment

Sabrina Carpenter's surprise appearance wasn't just a comedic highlight; it was also a fashion statement. She graced the stage wearing a vintage Chanel Spring/Summer 1995 ensemble, instantly capturing the attention of fashion enthusiasts. The choice of attire paid homage to classic Chanel, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the show.

According to Reddit users at whatthefrockk, Carpenter's vintage Chanel dress was a Spring/Summer 1995 piece.

Dwyane Wade's Unexpected Cameo

Dwyane Wade's cameo added a touch of sports star power to the evening. His appearance alongside Quinta Brunson was a delightful surprise for fans, showcasing his willingness to engage in lighthearted fun. While his role was brief, it left a lasting impression and added to the overall charm of the monologue.

Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz

The episode generated significant buzz on social media, with fans sharing their favorite moments and reactions. From Quinta Brunson's monologue to Benson Boone's musical performances, the show sparked conversations and laughter across various platforms.

On Reddit, the SNL community actively engaged in discussions, sharing insights, and dissecting the sketches. The LiveFromNewYork subreddit served as a hub for real-time reactions and post-show analysis, creating a sense of community among SNL enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Quinta Brunson's return to SNL, coupled with Benson Boone's musical debut, proved to be a winning combination. The episode offered a blend of humor, music, and unexpected cameos that left audiences thoroughly entertained. With memorable sketches, vintage fashion moments, and a vibrant social media buzz, this SNL episode is sure to be remembered as a highlight of the season.

Whether you're a long-time SNL fan or a newcomer to the show, this episode showcased the timeless appeal of Saturday Night Live and its ability to capture the zeitgeist of pop culture. Be sure to catch up on the sketches and performances to experience the laughter and excitement for yourself!